Blipblox
manufactured in July 2019 | reviewed by Kyle Lee on 10/31/19
…interesting sounds, impressive features, and advanced functionality in an overly simplified package
Rating: 7/10
Price: $190 at playtimeengineering.com
Inside the box
1 blipblox audio synthesizer
1 quick start guide
3 AA batteries
1 USB-DC power adapter
The Blipblox is a complex audio synthesizer that seems inappropriately marketed toward children ages three and up. The instrument features a 3-in (Low Frequency Oscillator 1, LFO 2, Modulation envelope), 3-out (Oscillator Modulation 1, Osc. Mod. 2, Low Pass Filter Mod.) modulation matrix with 12 unique oscillator modulation schemes. It includes an integrated drum machine for manually playing notes, and a built-in sequencer that plays a randomized synthetic melody from more than one hundred preloaded selections. The Blipblox has a built-in speaker, as well as a 1/4" audio input jack for external amplifier/headphones connection. Moreover, it has a MIDI input jack for an external sequencer or keyboard (not included in box).
Aesthetically, the Blipblox has a simple design at first glance. It is made entirely of plastic, but does not seem to be flimsy or overly weak in its construction. It has 2 levers, 7 knobs, and 9 buttons, none of which are labeled. There is no screen, and there are no words on the device, save for the name “Blipblox”. It features 16 small color-changing LEDs that have some reactivity to the currently playing sequence. This is a fun, visually stimulating, and somewhat informative design feature. It should be noted that the lights only react specifically to music when the device is in “performance mode”.
Adjustable Parameters / Settings: LED ON/OFF and Brightness, Maximum Volume, Disable/Enable Auto Power-off
Special Performance Modes: Bonus Waveform, Drum Tweak, Drum Solo, Sequencer Freeze, Sequencer Off, Parameter Display
Playtime Engineering LLC. claims that previous music experience is not required to operate the Blipblox. The company attests to the alleged fun of exploring new sounds, learning the signal path, and mastering the synthesis engine. I am someone who possesses previous music production experience, but after my nearly three hour initial session with the instrument I certainly would not call myself a master.
Previous experience and knowledge of specific Blipblox functions is certainly needed if you want to make the most of this device. Exploring new sounds quickly loses its novelty as many sequences sound similar. Moreover, the device operates in a somewhat chaotic fashion, given that it routinely changes the sequence unless you remember the specific sequence-locking button combination. This leads to frustration because when you do find a sound you like, you only have limited time before you’re on to the next sequence. It’s like looking through the window of a grand house, but you aren’t actually allowed to go in and walk around.
Despite Blipblox’s confusing nature and steep learning curve, I believe it has great potential as a production instrument. This potential is only realized after familiarization with the “Learning Toolbox” and through the facilitated use of additional devices. I think of the Blipblox like an instrument, such as a guitar or saxophone, that takes time, focussed study, and continued practice to fully understand and appreciate. For this reason, I do not view the Blipblox as a children’s toy but rather a grown-up piece of technology that has been visually dumbed-down to appeal to a younger audience.
A child could certainly pick this up, twist around some knobs, press some buttons, and notice a few changes in sound. However, I doubt the Blipblox will be an effective learning, discovery, and creation tool for anyone under the age of ten. Originally I began using the Blipblox without reading the online manuals (thinking that most kids would interact in a similar fashion). Taking this route led me to be confused and feel as though I had very little agency in the production process.
For me, the real creative fun only takes place after studying and understanding the signal paths that are visually represented in such a skeletal fashion (just colored arrows with no descriptive words or labeling). When you know how the device is operating and processing audio, you are much more free to enjoy the process. This process can be further enhanced by connecting to an external amp, keyboard, or digital audio workspace on a computer. I used a small fender amp during my testing, which certainly improved the sound quality.
Overall, I rate the Blipbox at a 7 on a 10-point scale. It offers interesting sounds, impressive features, and advanced functionality at the cost of nearly $200 and a steep learning curve. If you read the marketing on the box, you may be tempted to pick one up for a special child in your life.
Note however that this is no ordinary toy. Based on my testing, I’d recommend avoiding Blipbox unless you have the time, money, patience, and persistence to learn a tricky interface layered over a complex audio processing system.
A warning from the box that I’ll reprint out of caution: “Exercise caution if using headphones while operating this device. Sound levels can change quickly and may damage hearing.”
Quick Facts about the Reviewer:
Kyle Lee is a final-year Interactive Multimedia student at The College of New Jersey. He currently focuses his academic efforts on recording, sampling, and music production. He possesses advanced knowledge of digital audio workspaces (DAW’s), most notably Logic Pro X and Audacity. Kyle has studied electronic music for about three years and is well-practiced with digital audio synthesis. However, he has limited experience with physical synthesizer instruments and musical toys geared toward children.contact: kylelee960@gmail.com
